MIDSEASON REPORT

Spotify’s 2026 Songs of Summer Race Is Shaping Up to Be a Classic

July 29, 2026

Back in May, our global editors shared their annual Songs of Summer predictions, blending streaming data with their cultural expertise and instinct to identify this year’s early contenders. But summer has a way of rewriting the playlist: new releases arrive, unexpected favorites catch fire, and sleeper hits can become must-hear anthems overnight.

Now, midway through the season, they’re adding five wild-card contenders to the list. Some arrived after the initial predictions, while others gained momentum during one of the year’s biggest cultural moments. If our first list served as summer’s opening kickoff, these challengers represent a halftime shakeup. Here’s why our editors think each one belongs in the race.

“SUPERESTRELLA” by Aitana

“‘SUPERESTRELLA’ by Aitana is a shimmery, bouncy pop anthem loaded with the kind of euphoric energy that feels made for summer. It instantly makes you want to dance wherever you are, and after soundtracking Spain’s tournament victory, it’s become an indelible part of an electric summer 2026.”
—Antonella Bocaranda, Editor, U.S. Latin

“Ghetto Love Story” by BabyChiefDoit

“BabyChiefDoit’s ‘Ghetto Love Story’ didn’t have the head start that other Songs of Summer contenders had, but it’s become impossible to ignore nonetheless. It draws on ghettotech for a result that’s as festive as it is catchy.”
—Kemet High, Editor

“Been By Now” by Morgan Wallen

“Morgan Wallen kicked off a new musical era with ‘Been By Now,’ his first solo release since last year’s juggernaut album, I’m The Problem. Perhaps this mid-tempo breakup anthem will get people out of doomed relationships just in time for an end-of-summer fling!”
—Claire Heinichen, Senior Editor, Country

“Dai Dai” by Shakira & Burna Boy

“The biggest global sporting moments always have their own soundtracks, but when Shakira is involved, you know it’s going to be special. Bringing in Burna Boy and taking the Afrobeats route was the right call. ‘Dai Dai’ has become one of the sounds of the summer, showing how music and sports can bring people together in the process.”
—Daniel Calderon, Senior Editor, U.S. Latin

“Spend Dat” by Yung Miami

“Yung Miami’s solo breakout is here, and it’s triumphant. ‘Spend Dat’ has been absolutely everywhere this summer, charming superfans and skeptics alike with its ultra sticky hook—and, naturally, it comes with its own social media-driven dance, too. This one refuses to be denied.”
—Briana Younger, Editorial Lead, Hip-Hop